{% include "includes/auth/janrain/signIn_traditional.html" with message='It looks like you are already verified. If you still have trouble signing in, you probably need a new confirmation link email.' %}

breaking news

Miami Hurricanes spring practice set to begin: 5 players to watch

UM begins spring practice on Saturday. Here are five players that need big springs:DALLAS CRAWFORD, running back: With Mike James gone and Eduardo Clements’ immediate future in doubt because of injuries, the Hurricanes must find a capable No. 2 behind starter Duke Johnson. The only other scholarship running back on the current roster is Danny Dillard, who redshirted last season. Augustus Edwards, an incoming recruit, is more of a fullback. That leaves Crawford, a physically-gifted athlete who carried only six times for 23 yards last season.

Curtis Porter must stay healthy. (Palm Beach Post)

MATT GOUDIS, punter-kicker: The Hurricanes’ biggest losses were in the kicking game where both punter Dalton Botts and kicker Jake Wieclaw must be replaced. Goudis will get a crack to fill one job, if not both. Goudis has never attempted a place kick and his one punt — a low-hanging 37-yarder that was returned 28 yards in the Georgia Tech game — was not memorable. This could end up being a major area of concern.

JELANI HAMILTON, defensive end: Starter Anthony Chickillo took part in way too many snaps last season, part of the reason he endured a sophomore slump. Hamilton played little last season as a freshman but has impressed defensive coordinator Mark D’Onofrio and has the size and bulk — 6-foot-5 and 271 pounds — to be an every-down player.

TRACY HOWARD, cornerback: The top recruit in UM’s 2012 didn’t flop as a freshman, but he provided little impact on a defense desperate for playmakers. His lone start last season came in the regular-season finale against Duke when the Hurricanes gave up 432 passing yards and four touchdowns. With Brandon McGee gone, Howard will get a crack at a starting job but he will have to beat out fellow sophomore Antonio Crawford, who outplayed Howard last season.

CURTIS PORTER, defensive tackle: Between injuries and a stint in the coaches’ doghouse, Porter had a rough junior season. He played in only the final three regular-season games, but showed flashes. Despite his limited playing time, Porter’s 2.5 tackles for loss was second among UM’s defensive tackles, which tells you how badly the position performed last season. If Porter can stay healthy and in shape, he could be a big contributor. Proving he can do both this spring will go a long way.